This one is one of the most fun, but also the one that is frustrating to find the right image to make the most of the effect. $80 is certainly a lot cheaper than buying that F1.2 lens you’ve been drooling over. It is very cool to be able add that creamy dreamy BOKEH to most any image.

This effect seems to need the longest play time to get the hang of how it all works. But it does a really cool job as you can see in this picture.

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Here is the before image.

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The setting that I change most often is the focus plane or focus point. My example image used Bokeh Selection>Desaturated Blur Vignette and then some fine tuning to get the focus point where I wanted. Maybe 4 or 5 minutes vs the normal one minute.

I also have a lot of fun with the tilt shift effect. When you get the “right” image the effect can be amazing. I think it adds some nice bokeh to the snow boarder.

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This waterfall image really shows the toy like effect you get from a tilt shift lens.

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Check out the un-Topazed waterfall!

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From Topaz

Topaz Lens Effects brings all of your camera lenses and filters (and even those you don’t have yet) together in a powerful and easy-to-use plug-in, eliminating the need for additional and expensive equipment, while providing unparalleled editing flexibility. The diverse range of effects made possible by virtual simulation of common lenses, filters and specialty cameras make it easier than ever to change or emphasize focal points, adjust depth-of-field, add vignettes, balance color tone, create miniature scenes and so much more.

  • Explore, experiment with and apply 29 effects and over 200 presets
  • Bokeh, (blur) to minimize undesired backgrounds and foregrounds
  • Filter characteristics like color tone, fog, reflector and more
  • Flexibility to enhance or change your focal point
  • Creative focus effects like motion, miniatures and dual focus
  • Depth-of-field adjustments with depth map and Smart Brush
  • “Apply” button to stack effects and create customized looks
  • Separate controls for adjusting background and foreground details
  • Enhanced sharpening algorithm, grain, quad toning and vignettes

Traditionally, most lens and filter effects are interposed at the time of the shot. However, Lens Effects extends the functionality beyond your camera, giving you the convenience and flexibility to add any number of filter, lens, hood and specialty-camera adjustments after the shot. This type of control helps simplify your shooting process by simulating the abilities of your camera equipment inside of Photoshop. Lens Effects offers a more effective way to explore the many benefits that traditional lenses and filters offer – in just a click.

Also as gesture of my thanks for you reading my stories and looking at my images and such, I’m going to give you 15% off of your purchase at Topaz labs. Well technically Topaz is giving it to you on my behalf. All you have to do is use code Jeff15 and you will save 15% on your purchase.

What are you waiting for, head on over to the download page at Topaz Labs…HERE.

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I’d love to see your work with the filters, leave a link in the comments and I’ll be sure to check it out!

Questions, Comments, Concerns? Leave a comment, I answer them all!